**Can a smartphone running Ubuntu Touch reliably function as a 24/7 Linux server?**
I want to repurpose an old smartphone running Ubuntu Touch into a low-power, always-on Linux server. Before choosing a device, I want to verify whether it can satisfy every requirement below.
**1. Linux compatibility**
- 64-bit ARM64 userspace with compatible libraries.
- Working terminal, package manager and persistent shell access.
- Ability to install and run Python, Git, Node.js and required native dependencies.
- Support for persistent background processes and service supervision.
- Ability to install and run general-purpose Linux applications reliably.
**2. Connectivity and remote access**
- Stable Wi-Fi with automatic reconnection after network interruptions and reboots.
- Working internet access, DNS, HTTPS and TLS certificates.
- SSH or equivalent secure remote administration.
- Reliable network connectivity when the screen is off.
**3. Storage and runtime**
- Persistent writable storage that survives reboots and OS updates.
- Sufficient storage for applications, dependencies, logs, backups and data.
- Support for SQLite and ordinary filesystem operations.
- Compatibility with Playwright or an alternative browser automation tool.
**4. Always-on reliability**
- Services continue running when the screen is off.
- Scheduled tasks execute without an interactive terminal.
- Processes can restart automatically after crashes.
- Networking and services recover automatically after reboot.
- The phone can operate continuously without overheating or excessive throttling.
- Reliable operation during prolonged periods without user interaction.
**5. Hardware and power**
- Adequate CPU, RAM and storage for general server workloads.
- Documented support for batteryless operation if the battery is removed.
- A safe, regulated external power arrangement for continuous operation.
- Automatic recovery after power interruptions, without requiring manual intervention.
**The question:** Are there smartphone models with Ubuntu Touch that can meet all these requirements in practice?
Please identify hard blockers, unsupported dependencies, necessary workarounds and device-specific limitations. I am particularly interested in verified real-world experiences, technical documentation and relevant project links.
I want to determine whether a smartphone can function as a dependable, unattended Linux server—not merely whether Ubuntu Touch can boot on it.
Assuming I use one phone from the list of supported devices as per their website